The Italian scored the Magpies’ third goal in their 3-1 win at Southampton on Saturday after starting and finishing a wonderful team move involving Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.
United trailed 1-0 to Jan Bednarek’s goal after 10 minutes but an Isak brace made it 2-1 at half-time. Tonali then netted in the opening stages of the second half.
“We are happy for this win, we are happy for the reaction because last week [vs AFC Bournemouth] was difficult, this week was difficult,” said Tonali. “We're training together, we're training strong, we're training only for this game and we are happy for the great reaction today.
“The first 10 to 15 minutes, it was a little bit difficult but after the penalty, it was a different game. The game changed very quickly. We are happy because we worked very, very strongly.
“I'm happy for Alex [Isak], I'm happy for the team and I'm happy for the gaffer because we need this win, Three points for us today is amazing.
“I mentioned Alex because I'm happy for him, because last week was a difficult game for us and for him, and I love when a striker is happy, and today I'm happy for him.”
Tonali also paid tribute to Miguel Almiron, whose late substitute appearance at St Mary’s will likely be his last in Newcastle colours. The Paraguayan is expected to complete a £10million return to MLS side Atlanta United this week in what will be United’s first major piece of transfer business this month.
Almiron was serenaded by the travelling Geordies, who showed their appreciation for his six years at the club.
“I'm happy also for Miggy because he's an amazing person and player, and we love him,” said Tonali. “We are happy for him.
“We are a lovely team. I work for my teammates, my teammates work for me, and this is fantastic because it's difficult to find this in one team, but we work together, we live together, we stay together every day in the training ground.
“We know last season for every player was difficult, but now after nine wins in a row, we lost the last game in our stadium, and now with a great reaction.
“Every player loves to play for Newcastle, loves to play for these amazing fans, for this amazing team.”
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